Where should I go with my mom?

Hi all,

Looking for some advice on where my mom (64) and I (30) should go for around 10 days this fall. She's coming from the west coast of the US, while I'm on the east, and since we don't have much time, I'd prefer someplace not too far away for either of us.

We'd both like to go somewhere neither of us has been (she suggested China, but I think it's too far for so short a time). We've both been to much of Europe, and she traveled quite a bit in Mexico and Central America before I came along. We both enjoy moderate hiking and outdoor activities, as well as historical and cultural stuff. We're pretty adventurous, but I wouldn't want to go anyplace too stressful, because we'll just end up fighting the whole time.

She claims to be open to anything, but has no time to plan and is leaving it up to me, so any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I'm wracked with indecision -- please help!

Thanks,
Katryn

What sort of historical and cultural stuff?
We need more info to be able to help you.

You need an anchor destination, worth several days in itself, from which to make excursions, so you don't spend ten days running yourselves ragged.

You need at least a couple of opportunities for you to go your separate ways during the day and do your own things, so you don't drive each other nuts. Clarify from the outset that you will not spend the whole trip joined at the hip.

A music, art or dance festival?
Fall harvest-themed things abound.

Help us help you!

Hi,
I took my mother on two very successful trips, to Turkey and to Lebanon. Not too complicated, but not conventional either. I posted a report about the Turkey trip on this very branch (http://www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntree/thread.jspa?threadID=1607870). If you are interested in the Lebanon trip, let me know and I can give you details - my Lebanon post about it seems to have disappeared.
Lauralobster

Any sort of historical/cultural stuff! Something interesting about the people, not just the scenery, you know? I'd like a good balance of museums, nightlife, etc., not just lying on the beach or birdwatching.

PSW, the idea of an anchor destination is a really good one. I tend to try to get around as much as possible when I'm traveling by myself, but I think a lot of long, hot bus rides together is probably a recipe for misery.

Laura, thanks for the suggestions. Turkey sounds great! I'm not sure about Lebanon -- it's been a bit more unstable recently, right? Jordan is supposed be nice though. I was also thinking about Costa Rica or Ecuador (we're both interested in Peru, but she gets altitude sickness hiking in Colorado, so I'm not sure how feasible something like Machu Picchu would be).

Head to Argentina and your Fall trip will turn to Spring and the food,scenery,people are all great.Lo't of historical and cultural.

Have you gone hiking in the Swiss Alps? Altitude can be kept low in the Jura while still providing great scenery and hiking. I have done 'credit card camping' in that area several times. Geneva to Basel is about a 10 day hike. There is always some little village or hotel where you can stop for the night along the way and use your credit card.

Just north of you is a little place called Canada - culture, scenery and wonderful people. You might be pleasantly surprised!

joe@6 could be onto something!
Montreal and Vancouver immediately come to mind. Plenty of history and culture in each city, and plenty of outdoorsy stuff nearby. Mountains? Seashore? Take your choice.

Hi, I suggest Syria and Jordan. Lots of historical sites to see. Petra gives you lots of opportunity for walking/hiking. Haven't been to Wadi Rum but expect the same there. Friendly people - don't listen to anyone who says those countries are not safe. The area is small so no long distance traveling. Buses very comfortable. 10 days would be short but certainly you would have time to visit the main sites.

I thought Canada too. For that matter, why not New Mexico or Arizona?

Adventurous, full of culture and history, but not stressful is a tall order especially for 10 days. That really becomes 8 days when you consider travelling days. I would say Machu Pichu flying directly to Cuzco. Any extra days spent on the altiplano. Less stressful: Banos in Ecuador, flying into Quito and a short bus ride to Banos. Lots of hiking around there. Both places would be even less stressful if either of you spoke some Spanish???

Yes, Canada...you won't have to worry about jetlag cutting into your holiday. Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City.
Or west coast...Vancouver, Victoria and maybe up island to Parksville or Yellowpoint(book now to stay at Yellowpoint Lodge) or across to Tofino or Ucluelet or a stay on one of the Gulf Islands for a couple of days.

How about going to the Galapagos?

When we were there last fall, there was a mother/daughter combo, and I think they had a great time. With only 12 on the boat, we all got to know each other, so they had lots of chance to spend time with other people, not just 24/7 with each other. The mother didn't snorkel, but she seemed quite happy staying on board. (she was younger than me - not an age thing, just not comfortable snorkeling).

Well, that reminds me---last fall I went to both the Galapagos (fabulous---you would both like it) and Easter Island. The later is a long flight but no jet lag, and the island is laid back, pleasant, and interesting with all the history there. It's cheap, if you want it to be. You can take small tours to the high points of the island, and just hang out in the village (pop. 9,000). The Galapagos would be more physically active; Easter Island would be less physical unless you want to do hiking or biking.